Are Potatoes Good For You?

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Yes! Plain baked or roasted potatoes are actually quite healthy. So why do they get a bad rap?

Well, potatoes are often associated with fried, processed, and high-calorie foods. But it’s not the potato that makes those things unhealthy—it’s how they’re prepared and what goes on them, like excessive oils and butters.

But What About Fries?

The most commonly consumed vegetables in the U.S. are potatoes and tomatoes (tomatoes are considered vegetables in the culinary sense), according to the USDA.

Are you imagining a bunch of bright-eyed Americans snacking on fresh produce? Think again.

“French fries and pizza sauce contribute to the high consumption of these two vegetables,” says USDA data from 2017.

Well, that’s kind of a bummer—but it totally makes sense. If people associate potatoes with French fries, it’s no wonder the root veggie is often considered a bad-for-you indulgence.

Now, don’t misunderstand us: We’ve got absolutely nothing against fries. Seriously, we love ‘em. But, as with many things, moderation is key when it comes to indulging in the salty, greasy fried potatoes.

Potato Health Benefits

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Potatoes have also fallen out of favor lately because of a recent surge in popularity of low-carb diets. While potatoes are high in starch (a complex carbohydrate), that’s not a bad thing—carbohydrates are your body’s main source of energy.